If you are charged with a drug offense, it is imperative that you understand your rights and responsibilities. The criminal justice system is extremely complex. If convicted of a drug crime, you may face serious consequences, including jail and excessive fines. In recent news, two Texas men were arrested in Brown County after being found with over $18,000 in cash, 2.5 ounces of methamphetamine and a semi-automatic pistol. These suspects will undoubtedly need legal assistance as they confront any accusations against them.

According to reports, officers observed alleged suspicious activity and stopped a vehicle. Police claim that the occupants were heavily under the influence of methamphetamine. Sheriff's deputies requested a canine for a search of the vehicle, and the dog indicated that drugs were present inside of the car.

Authorities suspect that one of the men is associated with a Mexican drug trafficking gang. Police allege that he received one pound of methamphetamine and distributed the drugs to other traffickers in the area.

All of the items retained in the police investigation were contained in a backpack. This means that the officers conducted a search and seizure under the Fourth Amendment. It is imperative that the suspects' rights were honored in accordance with the law. If a court were to find that the suspects' constitutional rights were not protected in this process, any evidence that was illegally obtained could be thrown out.

The investigation of methamphetamine trafficking is ongoing. Nevertheless, these individuals will be charged with possession crimes. Hopefully, they will each retain a knowledgeable attorney. A lawyer can help serve as an advocate as the men fight any criminal allegations.

Source: KTXS.com, "Drug trafficker connected to Mexico gangs arrested," Feb. 10, 2012